Is toothpaste the white way to get a brighter smile?

By Dr Tom Shumack, BSci (Syd. Uni), BDent (Hons) (Syd. Uni)Grad Dip Clin Dent (Oral Implants) (Syd.Uni) MRAACDS (PDS)

As a dentist in Wagga, I’m often asked about whitening toothpaste. And I get it - everyone wants a brighter smile. The idea of using toothpaste to whiten your teeth seems like a quick and easy solution. But here’s the thing: while it can help improve the appearance of your teeth, there are some risks you need to be aware of.

Whitening toothpaste can be harsh on teeth

Firstly, whitening toothpaste actually works by being more abrasive. It scrubs away surface stains harder than regular toothpaste, but that abrasiveness can also cause problems if you’re not careful. Overuse can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum irritation and even enamel damage. I’ve seen it more times than I’d like - people using whitening toothpaste too often and wearing down the protective enamel on their teeth. Once that protection is gone, it’s not coming back.

Another thing to keep in mind is that not all whitening toothpastes are created equal. Some contain harsh ingredients that can do more harm than good, especially if you’ve got sensitive teeth or restorations like fillings or crowns. I recommend looking for products that have been approved by dental professionals and sticking to the instructions - because more isn’t always better.

If you’re on the fence about whether whitening toothpaste is right for you, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m always happy to guide you on what’s best for your teeth.

Tips for maintaining whiter teeth in the long term

While I don’t always recommend whitening toothpaste to my patients, the good news is that achieving a whiter smile is entirely possible - just follow a few proactive steps to keep your teeth healthy and clean:

Choose what you eat wisely

Certain foods and drinks, like coffee, tea, red wine and coke, can stain your teeth over time. To maintain a brighter smile, limit these or rinse your mouth with water after consumption. Consider other foods like apples, carrots and celery that can help naturally scrub your teeth clean as you eat. Dairy products are also a great choice as they are rich in calcium and phosphates which help to strengthen your tooth enamel.

Visit your dentist regularly

I recommend visiting your dentist once every six months to stay on top of your oral health and to reduce dental problems in the future. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to clean your teeth thoroughly, remove plaque and address any concerns, helping to keep your smile as bright and healthy as possible.

Ask about professional teeth whitening

If you’re looking for a noticeable, long-lasting change to the brightness of your teeth, ask your dentist about professional whitening options. In-office treatments are more effective and safer than over-the-counter products, such as whitening toothpaste. This is because your dentist can customise the whitening process to your particular needs, ensuring you get the best results with minimal risk.